Lapis Lazuli (Lajward Stone)

Lapis Lazuli, known in India by its Persian name Lajward (Rajavarta in Sanskrit), is scientifically classified as a contact-metamorphic rock rather than a single mineral species:

• Mineral Composition: The characteristic royal-to-ultramarine blue color is provided by Lazurite, a complex sulfur-bearing feldspathoid mineral ((Na,Ca)₈(AlSiO₄)₆(SO₄,S,Cl)₂). The blue rock host is naturally intergrown with sparkling brass-yellow flecks of Pyrite (iron disulfide, FeS₂) and white crystalline veins of Calcite (calcium carbonate, CaCO₃), alongside minor sodalite, diopside, or wollastonite.
• Gemological Grading: High-grade lapis lazuli features an intense, uniform royal azure blue with evenly scattered, glittering pyrite specks and minimal to zero dull white calcite banding. Read our comprehensive Lapis Lazuli (Lajward) Buying Guide for complete origin and grading criteria.

Because inexpensive blue minerals and synthetic polymers are frequently substituted for natural lapis lazuli, gemologists look for several diagnostic markers:

• Embedded Pyrite vs. Surface Glitter: In genuine natural lapis lazuli, pyrite crystals are embedded three-dimensionally within the rock matrix, displaying sharp crystalline facets and true metallic brassy luster. Cheap imitations often use surface paint or brass shavings that flake off easily.
• Acetone Dye Test: Dyed blue jasper (“Swiss Lapis”) or color-treated low-grade chalcedony will release artificial blue color onto an acetone-soaked cotton swab. Undyed lapis lazuli leaves the swab clean.
• Density & Temperature: Genuine lapis lazuli has a specific gravity of 2.70 to 2.90 and feels cool to the initial touch. Polymer resin or plastic imitations feel noticeably lighter, warm quickly in the hand, and emit a chemical odor under hot needle testing.
• Our Lapis Lazuli: Each piece comes with an independent lab report, which states whether it is dyed.

Every Lapis Lazuli (Lajward) gemstone sold by Ratna Gems is individually tested and comes with a report from an independent gem testing laboratory. The certificate identifies the rock type as Natural Metamorphic Rock (Lapis Lazuli), major constituent minerals as Lazurite with Pyrite and Calcite, exact carat and ratti weight, dimensions, specific gravity (2.70–2.90), refractive index (spot reading ~1.50 from lazurite), hardness (5.0–5.5 on Mohs scale), confirms diagnostic natural mineral texture, and states whether it is dyed or otherwise treated. Each report carries its own report number, which you can quote to the laboratory to check it.

Lab Report Included: Every gemstone comes with a report from an independent gem testing laboratory at no extra charge. If you specifically require an additional report from GII, IIGJ, or IGI, you can select it from the certification dropdown on the product page (official laboratory testing fees apply in advance on a non-refundable basis).

With a Mohs hardness of 5.0 to 5.5 and a porous multi-mineral structure, Lapis Lazuli requires specialized care to preserve its deep blue surface polish:

• Acid & Chemical Vulnerability: Because lapis lazuli contains calcite and lazurite, contact with domestic acids (vinegar, lemon juice, cosmetic fruit acids) or harsh household cleaners will etch the surface, turning the mirror-like polish dull. Contact with dilute acids can decompose lazurite, releasing a faint hydrogen sulfide odor.
• Avoid Thermal & Ultrasonic Shock: Never use ultrasonic devices, boiling water, or high-pressure steam cleaners. The porous aggregate structure absorbs liquids readily, and ultrasonic vibrations can loosen the calcite and pyrite grain boundaries.
• Safe Cleaning: Wipe gently with a soft, lint-free cloth slightly moistened with lukewarm distilled water. Pat dry immediately with a clean towel. Store separately in an individual soft fabric pouch away from harder minerals like quartz, beryl, and sapphires.

With an archaeological legacy spanning over 6,000 years from ancient Sumer and Egypt to traditional Indian Vedic lapidary, historical literature outlines the following customary conventions:

• Customary Metals: Sterling Silver (925 Silver), White Gold, or Panchdhatu alloys are traditionally considered ideal mounting metals to showcase the contrast between royal blue lazurite and golden pyrite flecks.
• Traditional Placement: Customarily worn as a cabochon signet ring on the middle finger (Madhyama) of the working hand, or as a pendant resting near the throat or chest.
• Traditional Timing: Often set or worn on Saturday evenings during Shukla Paksha (waxing moon) around sunset.
• Traditional Role (Upratna): In Indian practice, Lajward is sometimes named as an Upratna (substitute) for Natural Blue Sapphire (Neelam) associated with Saturn (Shani).